If you’re thinking that it’s all office spaces and Samesville, you’d be wrong. Around Buffalo, we continue to see new and interesting activities and opportunities spring up as development continues in our city.

And, they’re definitely not boring. With everything from breweries to bakeries to boulders, it’s a great time to be part of the business scene in the Buffalo area.

Central Rock Gym

Central Rock Gym is one of the anchor tenants for the re-visioned Cooperage. The space includes more than 21,000 feet of climbing walls and can accommodate climbers of all ages. It’s designed to be a community space and to foster inclusivity among those who want to build their strength and endurance.

Being near this location offers plenty of opportunities for active lifestyle-oriented businesses, restaurants and stores. In addition, the entire area is a great draw for young, active singles and families, which means it’s ripe for growing businesses, co-working spaces and startups.

Buffalo Made Co.

For a sophisticated and unique-to-Buffalo shopping experience, consider Buffalo Made Co. This new storefront includes retail shopping alongside the design studio of one of Buffalo’s foremost graphic artists, Rob Hopkins.

The store includes a curated collection of high-quality products, including cologne, coffee beans, attire and leather goods. And, its location, on Genesee just east of downtown, is in one of Buffalo’s many up-and-coming spaces, mere blocks (or in some cases, mere feet) from other big names like Big Ditch Brewing, 500 Pearl, Marble+Rye and Osteria 166.

As an added plus for those shopping for retail opportunities around this area, you’ll know exactly where to find the perfect designer to create that new logo for your business.

The Bird’s Nest

Looking for something new that you’ve probably never done before? Check out the circus arts classes available at The Bird’s Nest. Physically located near the Larkinville district, The Bird’s Nest is probably a million mental miles away from your typical fitness or relaxation setting.

The classes cover a wide variety of physical exertion from handstand conditioning and pole dancing to yoga and acrobatics. The Bird’s Nest also offers trapeze classes and silks classes for those who want to soar above the ground.

Talking Leaves Bookstore

Bookstores aren’t necessarily new and exciting; after all, they’ve been around in some form or another for hundreds of years. For librophiles, though, there’s nothing more exciting than finding that perfect bookshop that just makes you feel at home.

Talking Leaves embodies the fun and vibrant culture of its Elmwood Village neighborhood. And, it continues to thrive as an independent bookseller, even in this age of digital readers and Netflix.

With a coffee shop (Caffe Aroma) onsite, it’s easy to while away the hours and get lost in a good book. And, with young professionals making their homes at 722 W. Delavan and with great dining options around the corner at JT’s Restaurant, you can be part of a great community (if you’re able to pull your nose out of your favorite book!).

Resurgence Brewing Company

Breweries are de rigueur around Buffalo now, with good beer options on every corner. Resurgence Brewing Company stands out for a few reasons, though.

First, the brewery offers unique, interesting beers and they’re not afraid to experiment with flavors to create new options.

Second, they just get Buffalo. They know what we like, and they incorporate it brilliantly into their brews Not every brewery offers beverages that are homages to Buffalo’s best beloved treats, but Resurgence is famous for their flagship Sponge Candy Stout and Loganberry Wit.

Third, their new location is just so on point. In The Cooperage, they’re convenient to everything we love most about Buffalo – the waterfront, the KeyBank Center and the Sabres, Canalside. And, the brewery itself is gorgeous, with natural light and an ariy feel that make it perfect for gathering.

This area will continue to develop as a community hot spot, so there’s plenty of opportunity available to be part of its growth.

Buffalo is called the City of Good Neighbors, and rightfully so. As the Buffalo area continues its renaissance, being part of a vibrant community is possible in multiple areas throughout the city.